plate no. 7114

The Cypresses at Cagnes

Henri-Edmond Cross, 1908

oil, canvasPointillismlandscapetreeslandscapebuildingsskyfoliagecypress trees

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand color mixing for pointillism and how to build up an image using small, distinct dots of color. It also provides practice in creating depth and texture through color variation and brushwork.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, indicating the placement of the trees, buildings, and horizon line.
step 02
Establish the main color blocks for the sky, trees, and background foliage.
step 03
Begin applying small, individual dots of color, starting with the background and working forward.
step 04
Focus on layering colors to create depth and vibrancy, using complementary colors to create contrast.
step 05
Pay attention to the direction and density of the brushstrokes to create texture and form.
step 06
Refine the details of the trees and buildings, adding highlights and shadows.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and contrast to achieve the desired effect.
step 08
Add final touches and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · cadmium yellow · viridian green

secondary · alizarin crimson · orange · violet

Mix greens by combining blues and yellows, and create variations by adding white or other colors. Use complementary colors like red and green, or blue and orange, to create vibrant contrasts.

techniques